Finalists for Cornelius city manager include former Beaverton Mayor Rob Drake

Former manager of Talent, and managers from Reedsport and Hermiston also top list

The city of Cornelius is looking for a new city manager and it could wind up with an old hand in Washington County politics.

Longtime Beaverton Mayor Rob Drake is one of four finalists announced today for the top post in the western Washington County city. Along with Drake, the City Council is considering Reedsport City Manager Scott Somers, Hermiston City Manager Ed Brookshier and former Talent City Manager Jay Henry.

Drake is currently the interim city manager of the Yamhill County city of Carlton.

The finalists will visit Cornelius on Jan. 13 and 14, and participate in a series of interviews with the City Council, city staff and community members.

The candidates will also attend a public reception on Jan. 14 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, 1310 N. Adair Street.

Candidates will provide brief introductions beginning at 5:15 p.m., and comment cards will be provided for attendees to share their thoughts with the mayor and City Council.

Former city manager Dave Waffle was fired by the City Council last June following a series of tense interactions with a majority voting bloc, called "Team 3."

In September, all Team 3 members, including Mayor Neal Knight and city councilors Jamie Minshall and Mari Gottwald were recalled by voters.